Buddy Whaley

Buddy Victor Maurice Whaley, 69, a resident of Athens and formerly of Cleveland, passed away Sunday, December 8, 2013 at his residence. He was of the Baptist faith. He was self-employed in the upholstery business working mainly with cars. Buddy served several years in the Army National Guard. He loved music and played bass.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James C. and Carrie Lee von Schmittou Whaley; brother, Gene Whaley and sister, Libby Whaley.

He is survived by his wife, Anita Blankenship Whaley of Athens; two children: Michelle Whaley Arnette and Misty Whaley Burcham and husband, Daniel, all of Cleveland; two step children: Phillip Henderson and wife, Stephanie of Calhoun, GA; Nikki Bartenfield and husband, Ryan of Dalton, GA; thirteen grandchildren; brothers: James Whaley and wife, Betty; Gary Whaley; Mike Whaley all of Knoxville; and David Whaley and wife, Janice of Sevierville; sisters: Linda Whaley; Mary Morgan and husband, John; and Martha Munsey and Tim all of Knoxville; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December, 12, 2013 in the chapel of Ralph Buckner Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Sears officiating. Interment will follow in Hilcrest Memorial Gardens with James Whaley, Gary Whaley, Mike Whaley, David Whaley, Phillip Henderson, Ryan Bartenfield and David Arnette serving as pallbearers. A white dove release ceremony will conclude the service.

His family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, December 11, 2013 at the funeral home.

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Whaley family guestbook at www.ralphbuckner.com.